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An opinionated list of the world's best restaurants

Published October 22nd, 2015

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I'm fortunate that my work allows me the flexibility to travel often – almost demanding it in recent years. It's relaxing and invigorating to meet chefs and renowned movers and shakers in the wine and spirits industry from around the world, to spend time experiencing the places that everyone is buzzing about, and to discover hidden gems off the beaten path.

A new event idea might hit me at a highly rated restaurant in France or at a street cart in Thailand, making travel a key part of my normal business operations. Here are a few spots I've discovered over the years and hold near and dear to my heart.

Europe

This historical mansion is situated off the stunning Champs-Elysees. Yannick Alleno, manning the helm since July 2014, keeps the modern haute cuisine that Ledoyen is known for and continues to transform it through impeccable sauces.

Le Chateaubriand, Paris

A no-frills bistro with a pleasantly priced pre-fixe menu with global influences.

Albert Adria, brother of Ferran, treats diners to a unique tapas experience that's both educational and flavourful. Half the fun is getting a reservation. The other half is letting the chef take you on a once-in-a-lifetime journey.

A photo posted by Cook It Raw (@cookitraw) on Jul 29, 2015 at 10:58am PDT

Lo Scoglio, Amalfi Coast

I plan a meal here every time I go to Italy. The charming and rustic restaurant is set on the Amalfi Coast, overlooking a burning blue sea. They serve a divine mix of fresh pastas and seafood that tastes as heaven-sent as the view.

Dario Cecchini, Tuscany

Dario has a smile as world-famous as his butcher skills. His respect for the animals we eat and nose-to-tail philosophy translate into dishes with an inherent wow factor.

Located at the Connaught Hotel, this bustling respite is a pleasant stop for lunch while touring London. Darroze sources the best ingredients and treats each one with the integrity it deserves, yielding delightful results.

Chez Bruno, Lorgues

Referred to as 'emperor of the truffle', the one-of-a-kind luxury restaurant is in a jaw-dropping setting in southern France.

L'Auberge Du Pere Bise, Talloires

The pristine waters of the banks of Lake Annecy, where the restaurant is located, serve as the perfect canvas for Sophie Bise's creations. Each dish is a mix of family tradition and playful creativity.

Central & South America

Astrid & Gaston, Lima Chef Gaston Acurio is known for two things: pushing the boundaries of Peruvian cuisine, and introducing the flexibility of its flavours, with an emphasis on simplicity, to the world. This is a must-stop on any trip to Lima.

Enrique Olvera is revolutionising the way the world sees Mexican cuisine. Olvera takes a contemporary approach to the rich culinary heritage of Mexican cookery, and his keen attention to detail is not to be underestimated.

USA

Zahav, Philadelphia Michael Solomonov gives your taste buds whiplash. Take what you thought you knew about Israeli cuisine and set it aside. The food at Zahav is filled to the brim with earthy flavours and modern twists.

Fathom celebrates all the reasons why we pack our bags, get on a plane, hitch a ride, and explore beyond our backyards. Fathom is the travel website reinvented — through inspiring stories, practical advice, and useful tools and products. Fathom is where world-curious travelers indulge their passion for travel — whether they're getting on a plane tomorrow or staying at their laptop.